Iowa knows how to do Christmas right – and we have some of the best Christmas towns anywhere. But did you know there’s an actual city of Christmas in Iowa? To find it, you’ve got to head down to the southeasternmost part of Iowa to the charming town of Keokuk. This laid-back city of just under 10,000 people is known for its key location and its beautiful Mississippi River views – but if the town has anything to say about it, it should be known for its holiday festivities! The little festival that takes place in Rand Park each December, known as City of Christmas, is a rustic light display with a small-town charm that’s hard to find these days. We look forward every year to seeing what kind of show Keokuk puts on for us, and this year’s event looks better than ever!

Keokuk's beautiful river views are enough of a selling point - but you haven't really seen the city until you've seen it at Christmastime.
USGS/Wikipedia
That's because Keokuk is the "City of Christmas" and its annual holiday event is off to a flying start.
City of Christmas
The entirety of Rand Park has been transformed into a holiday village with countless lights and decorations. It's become one of the most popular drive-through light shows in town.
Keokuk City of Christmas/Facebook

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The event has a personal touch that many of the larger events sometimes lack, with this year's event being dedicated to a beloved local resident who passed away.
Keokuk City of Christmas/Facebook
The highlight is definitely the sprawling tunnel of lights - a dazzling journey into a world of colors.
Keokuk City of Christmas/Facebook
You can get into the fun too! The City of Christmas hosts an annual decorating competition.
Keokuk City of Christmas/Facebook
You can even bring your own personalized ornament to the park to display, and then pick it up before the event ends for the year.
Keokuk City of Christmas/Facebook

Have you visited the City of Christmas in Iowa? Let us know what you think of this old-school Keokuk event in the comments section! The event is open now through Christmas, and you can find out more about this year’s event at the City of Christmas website, and the Facebook page of this holiday light show in Iowa has photos of this year’s event in the making. While you’re in Keokuk, why not have a meal at the city’s rustic western-themed barbecue restaurant?

Looking for the perfect gift for that traveler in your life this holiday season? Check out our holiday gift guide!

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Featured Addresses
Rand Park, 1401 Stripe St, Keokuk, IA 52632, USA